See the MOT history before you buy.
Find which faults are unusually common for the make and model, where enough MOT data is available. Check the car’s own record and compare up to four vehicles before arranging a viewing.
Free, with no account needed. MOT records from the DVSA. Tax and SORN from the DVLA.
MOT records describe a vehicle’s condition at the time of each test. Mileage discrepancies do not prove fraud. ULEZ and running cost figures are Motorwise estimates. Stored results may not show recent changes. Registrations you search for may be recorded in server logs.
What your free check includes
Start with the model’s weak points, then look at the individual car’s record.
MOT weak points by model
Find unusually common MOT faults for the make and model, with affected years and mileage bands. First-time pass rates show how often cars of each year passed without needing repairs at the test. Available where there is enough data.
Recurring faults by vehicle system
See which vehicle systems have faults recorded at several MOTs, with the latest advisories shown separately. Past findings give you specific repairs to ask about; they do not show whether a fault is still present.
Compare up to four vehicles
Compare your shortlist side by side, including recorded mileage and faults. See the proportion of MOT tests each vehicle passed and the advisories from its latest test.
Mileage changes on a chart
Follow recorded mileage over time to spot decreases or sharp changes. Compare the dated readings with the advertised mileage and service records.
The MOT records behind the analysis
Read the dated test results, failures and advisories behind the charts. MOT records come from the DVSA.
Tax and SORN status
Vehicle tax and SORN status from the DVLA. Stored results may not show recent changes, so confirm the status before driving.
Put the MOT history to use
Turn recorded faults into specific questions to ask before a viewing.
What should you ask the seller about?
Faults are grouped by vehicle system, so you can see whether brakes, suspension or other areas appear at several MOTs. Use those records to ask what has been repaired.
Decide which cars are worth viewing.
Compare MOT results and recorded faults side by side before arranging a viewing. You can check how each car has fared at its tests without switching between reports.
Does the mileage match the advert?
Follow the mileage recorded at each MOT and compare it with the advert. If a reading drops or changes sharply, check it against service records and ask the seller about it.
How it works
A registration is enough. The report is ready in seconds.
Enter a registration
Type a UK number plate. Cars, vans and motorcycles with MOT records in England, Scotland or Wales.
We pull the official records
MOT history comes from the DVSA. Tax and SORN come from the DVLA. No account is required.
Read the patterns
See model weak points where data allows, recurring faults on this car, and mileage plotted from dated tests.
Compare before you view
Put up to four vehicles side by side, then decide which cars are worth a closer look.
Frequently asked questions
What does Motorwise add to an MOT history check?
Where enough data is available, Motorwise shows MOT weak points for the make and model, with affected years, mileage bands and first-time pass rates. For an individual car, it groups recorded faults by vehicle system and highlights recurring problem areas. You can compare up to four vehicles and follow their recorded mileage on charts.
Can MOT history show if a car has been clocked?
MOT history can show a drop in recorded mileage, but this alone does not prove a car has been clocked. Compare the dated readings with the advertised mileage and service records, then ask the seller about any differences. Motorwise plots the readings on a chart to make changes easier to spot.
What do MOT advisories mean?
Advisories record problems that did not cause a test failure but may need attention, such as worn tyres or brake discs. Check whether the same problem appears at several tests and ask what has been repaired since the latest MOT. Motorwise groups advisories by vehicle system to help you spot recurring problems.
Where does Motorwise get its data?
MOT records come from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Registration and tax details come from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Motorwise calculates estimates for ULEZ compliance and fuel costs; these are guidance rather than official records. Motorwise is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the DVSA, DVLA or GOV.UK.
What vehicles can I check on Motorwise?
You can check cars, vans and motorcycles with MOT records in England, Scotland or Wales. Northern Ireland MOT records are not available through Motorwise. Vehicles that have not had an MOT may still have registration and tax details. Imported vehicles may have limited UK test history.
What doesn't Motorwise check?
Motorwise does not check outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, stolen vehicle records or previous keepers. These details are not included in the DVSA and DVLA data we use. For this information, use a separate paid vehicle history check before buying.